The Magalies Meander was created as a tourist route to showcase the many attractions and activities of the Magaliesberg Biosphere, which was declared an international Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in June 2015.

Just outside the village of Magaliesburg, along the meander, is a farm-stay gem called Nullarbor Cottages. This beautiful 15ha private farm is situated at the end of a navigable 2km dirt road, where a scattering of secluded wood-and-brick cottages are set among the trees.

Marketed as affordable self-catering accommodation, Nullarbor nevertheless provides a good dose of luxury and romance – fireplaces for chilly evenings, a glass of fine red in hand; some cottages with Jacuzzis, others with private outdoor showers under the stars.

Each is designed for two guests and has a lapa, braai area and covered parking. Selected cottages are also pet-friendly.

With every creature comfort taken into consideration – kitchens fully equipped, and wooden decks making the most of the mountain views – all that’s left is to do is unplug and unwind.

Repeating the magic

Each of my visits to Nullarbor has offered its own kind of magic. My first stay was in winter several years ago in the whimsically named So Hobgoblin cottage. My partner and I spent most of our time on the vast veranda, which framed sweeping views of the farm and the mountains beyond as we lounged on a perfectly placed couch.

At night, after a walk down to the dam or a longer hike in the hills, topped off with sundowners and a braai, we’d wrap up in a fluffy blanket to gaze at the night skies abundant with stars and listen to the owls.

My second stay was a midweek break in summer; just me and my dogs this time. I’d escaped to the tranquil countryside to finish a writing project and stayed in Pula Moon, a spacious, cosy bedsitter with a large garden and a luxurious indoor jet shower.

On writing breaks (or when writer’s block took over), we’d stroll to the nearby pool. The dogs napped contentedly in the sun while I cooled off, looking across a landscape of rolling green farmlands, a late-afternoon thunderstorm brooding on the horizon.

While my terriers weren’t candidates for Nullarbor’s off-leash areas (those ears are purely decorative), there was plenty to explore, including woodland, bush trails and farm roads. We also encountered a bounty of birdlife – an African paradise flycatcher and blue waxbill were highlights.

‘Day breaks’ at Nullarbor

Nullarbor is a perfect retreat for the city-weary – and one of its clever selling points is the ‘day break’ offer. Don’t have time to stay for the weekend but desperate to recharge? Then spend a day on the farm (Mondays to Thursdays), enjoy all the facilities, the use of the cottages, breathe in the country air and return home feeling like a new human.

Special rates for midweek and extended stays are also available – give the owner Jenny Fernhold a call to find out more.

What to do in the area

Nullarbor is the ideal springboard for exploring the scenic Magalies Meander. Nature lovers can enjoy mountain hikes and visits to nearby game reserves, while history enthusiasts will appreciate the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

In need of some pampering? Head to one of the nearby day spas.

For thrill seekers there’s abseiling, canopy tours, quad biking, microlighting and hot-air ballooning.

Foodies can indulge in a variety of eateries to suit every palate, including pubs, bistros, buffets and gourmet dining. Prefer sampling and sipping? The meander’s also got that covered with cheese, wine, gin and craft beer tastings.

The nearby Hartbeespoort Dam is a popular day trip for boat rides, markets, wildlife sanctuaries and panoramic views from the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway.

For more information phone Jenny Fernhold on 083 652 8647, email [email protected], or visit nullarbor.co.za.